When considering the past fortunes, or misfortunes, of Oregon linebackers who have suited up for the Philadelphia Eagles through the years, fans might be rightfully gun-shy when it comes to the franchise pulling the trigger on more Ducks at the position.
To put it very lightly, Casey Matthews never panned out. Meanwhile, fellow Oregon linebacker Kiko Alonso drew plenty of ire when he arrived via that mind-numbing move during the nightmare-inducing Chip Kelly era, as LeSean McCoy was jettisoned for yet another undersized linebacker hailing from Eugene.
In the present day, however, linebacker Bryce Boettcher is looking to pave his own way and make a name for himself, and it could also lead him to Philly this April, as the two-sport standout projects in that day three, fifth round neighborhood. Similar to prospect TJ Hall, who also might be in play for Philadelphia in the latter stages of this draft, Boettcher won't wow any scouts with his speed or overwhelm the opposition with his athleticism, but he has an innate nose for the football, gets downhill, and just makes plays.
From walk-on to multiple All-Big Ten awards
A former walk-on, Boettcher's development as a Duck was nothing short of astounding. A pair of Second-team All-Big Ten nods the past two seasons, culminating in the hometown high-school star born and raised in Eugene securing All-American honors to cap a remarkable run in Oregon.
In addition, Boettcher was recognized as the top FBS player who started his journey as a walk-on, taking home the Burlsworth Trophy back in 2024.
Bryce knows baseball, too
Along with his exploits on the gridiron, Boettcher was also a highly-coveted star on the diamond (15 home runs, 37 steals, one gold glove at Oregon), tabbed by the Houston Astros in the 13th round of the 2024 MLB draft as an outfielder. However, Boettcher is now solely focused on football, and whoever drafts him will get a tireless worker who could quickly emerge in the special teams phase.
With the future of Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean up in the air, Eagles general manager Howie Roseman could be looking to add new blood to the linebacker unit with free agency threatening to usher the explosive Bulldog elsewhere at a hefty price tag.
Should Dean move along, first-rounderJihaad Campbell slots in next to Zack Baun in the starting unit. Meanwhile, Jeremiah Trotter Jr. will look to continue his steady climb up the depth chart.
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Boettcher is well worth contemplating later in the draft, especially if Dean leaves the nest. Don't be shocked if another Duck lands in Philadelphia before long.